Cardiff Blues and Wales flanker Ellis Jenkins has signed a new long-term contract to stay at Cardiff Arms Park after turning down an offer from the Ospreys.

The 24-year-old’s contract was due to expire at the end of the season, and he had been strongly linked to a move to the Liberty Stadium, however he will now stay at Wales’ Capital Region for the foreseeable future.

Having risen through the ranks at the Arms Park, Jenkins has now made 83 appearances in all competitions for Cardiff Blues, captaining the side on a number of occasions. He also won the ‘Man of Judgement’ award for his performance at Judgement Day last season.

The Church Village-born forward has won five Welsh caps, having previously captained the under-20 side at the 2013 Junior World Championship.

Commenting on the news, Ellis Jenkins said “I’m really happy to sign a new contract here. I’ve come through the Cardiff Blues system, it’s a region I’m very passionate about and I’m really optimistic about the future.

“I feel this is the best environment for me to continue improving and the competition for places in the back-row can only be beneficial to us all. I’m now looking forward to getting back on the pitch and contributing as much as I can in the second half of the season.”

Cardiff Blues also revealed this week that flanker Olly Robinson will join up with the squad with immediate effect having been released from his contract with Bristol.

The 26-year-old made nine appearances while on loan at the Arms Park for injury cover, but will now be available to face the Dragons on Boxing Day as part of a squad that will be without Sam Warburton for the rest of the season.

Danny Wilson was pleased, telling the Cardiff Blues official website, “Olly was outstanding while on loan and was the out-and-out seven we needed with the injuries we had. He suits the way we play and is superb on both sides of the ball. Not only that but he is a quality professional.

“With Sam Warburton out for the season, Ellis Jenkins only on his way back and Josh Navidi likely to retain his Wales place, Olly gives us that genuine open-side option throughout the season.”